New York: The 10 best songs about the city that never sleeps

New York City is one of the most famous metropolises in the world and has inspired many artists. In this article we present the 10 best songs about New York that celebrate the city, the spirit and its people.

#1 "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra

This classic by Frank Sinatra is probably the most famous song about New York. The refrain "Start spreading the news, I'm leaving today" describes the feeling of freedom and adventure. A feeling that connects many people with the city.

#2 "Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys

This hit by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys conveys a sense of pride and love of home. The refrain "These streets will make you feel brand new" describes the breathtaking energy of the city.

#3 "I Love New York" by Madonna

Madonna's ode to the city where she long lived is an energetic and unforgettable hit. The refrain "I love New York, I love New York" speaks about the never-ending love for the city of New York.

#4 "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and The Waves

Although this song isn't actually about New York directly, it manages to create a special connection with the city. This is because this song is used in many movies and series about New York. The happy and upbeat rhythm fits perfectly with the excitement and sense of freedom. A feeling that many people associate with New York.

#5 "New York Minute" by Don Henley

This song by Don Henley describes the fast pace and rush of life in the city. The refrain "You can get lost in a New York minute" speaks of how quickly time flies in the city and how easy it is to get lost in it.

#6 "The City" by The 1975

In "The City", the indie rock band The 1975 sings about the lonely side of life in New York and the difficult balance between dreams and reality. The determination it takes to think and thrive in the city is expressed in the chorus "I'll take the long way home, I'll find my own way."

#7 "Manhattan" by Cat Power

This Cat Power song celebrates the beauty and melancholy of New York City. Despite the city's challenges, the refrain "Manhattan, oh Manhattan, you're my kind of town" expresses the love the singer has for the city.

#8 "New York State of Mind" by Billy Joel

This Billy Joel classic describes the love and connection one feels for the city, despite its challenges. The refrain "I'm in a New York state of mind" expresses how the city shapes and changes you.

#9 "New York" by Paloma Faith

This song by Paloma Faith is about the beauty and solitude of life in New York City. The chorus "I'll walk these streets, I'll wear these scars" expresses the determination you need to survive and succeed in the city.

#10 "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" by Beastie Boys

Beastie Boys' "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" is another iconic song that captures the energy and spirit of New York City. Released in 1986 as part of the album Licensed to Ill, the heavy metal and punk rock influences reflect the attitude and energy of the city at the time. The lyrics honor the band's homeland of Brooklyn and their love of the city's music and culture. The rousing chorus "No sleep till Brooklyn, foot on the pedal never ever false metal" expresses the band's desire to push boundaries and make a name for themselves in the New York City music scene. It's a must for any Beastie Boys fan or anyone who wants to feel the heart of the city.

New York City is an incredible city that has inspired many artists, and these 10 songs celebrate the love, challenges, beauty and energy of this metropolis in their own unique way. Whether you're a New York lover or just visiting the city, these songs will help you understand and appreciate your New York City experience.

Can't get enough?

5 more songs about The Big Apple that you should know

1. "Autumn in New York" by Billie Holiday Billie Holiday sings about the beauty of fall in New York.
2. "New York City Serenade" by Bruce Springsteen Here Bruce Springsteen sings of the city's beauty and melancholy.
3. "New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down" by LCD Soundsystem This song by LCD Soundsystem talks about love and the challenges of living in New York City.
4. "The Heart of Saturday Night" by Tom Waits Tom Waits on New York nightlife.
5. "Broadway" by Goo Goo Dolls The Goo Goo Dolls on the excitement and opportunities that New York City's famed street Broadway offers.

What makes the city of New York so special?

New York City is a mecca for musicians and music lovers all over the world. The city has a long and rich musical history, which dates back to the 1920s and which continues through the different epochs and genres to the present day. The diversity of the music scene in New York is incredible and offers something for every taste, from jazz and blues in the historic clubs of Harlem to rock and pop in the famous venues such as Madison Square Garden.

Another feature that makes New York City so special for music is the number of talented and innovative musicians who live and work here. Many famous musicians & bands have started their careers in New York and the influx of talent from all over the world who come here to realize their dreams ensures that the city's music scene is always up to date.

New York City is also a place where music history is written. Numerous legendary concerts and recordings have taken place in the city and many well-known albums and songs originate here. This combination of history and innovation makes New York City one of the most important centers for music around the world.

All mentioned songs about New York City again in the overview

1. "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra
2. "Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys
3. "I Love New York" by Madonna
4. "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and The Waves
5. "New York Minute" by Don Henley
6. "The City" by The 1975
7. "Manhattan" by Cat Power
8. "New York State of Mind" by Billy Joel
9. "New York" by Paloma Faith
10. "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" von Beastie Boys
11. "Autumn in New York" by Billie Holiday
12. "New York City Serenade" by Bruce Springsteen
13. "New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down" by LCD Soundsystem
14. "The Heart of Saturday Night" by Tom Waits
15. "Broadway" by Goo Goo Dolls

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Write your own song about the city of New York!

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